Frequently Asked Questions

Orientation Leaders are current undergraduate NIU students who facilitate small group discussions with new students, answer questions, provide directions and help ease transition to NIU for incoming students. OLs assist with summer orientation programs and Welcome Days events.

As an OL, you're going to significantly increase your leadership and communication skills. You'll also learn how to facilitate both large and small group discussions, conflict management,program management, create an environment that is inclusive, civil and welcoming to promote diversity and inclusion and engage with faculty and staff from many different campus departments.

These are all key skills employers look for when it's time for you to find a job! You'll also meet lots of new people and make friends.

There are five steps in the interview process. Don't worry, we'll help you keep track!

• Complete the 101 module in Blackboard
• Complete and submit the online application.
• Pass the GPA and judicial compliance check
• Participate in one group interview.
• If selected, attend one individual interview(s).

Yes! You'll have to provide us with two references. One of your references has to be associated with NIU. You'll have to provide us with their names, email addresses, phone numbers and relationship to you.

Yes! You’ll get paid an hourly rate during spring training sessions. Plus, you'll receive a stipend of $2,000 throughout the summer.

Yes. You are required to attend all training dates listed on the position descriptions. 

Yes. It is required to stay in the residence hall during our orientation programs. Don't worry, your room is part of being an OL so it's free!

If you need to request an accommodation to this requirement, please email orientation@niu.edu. 

No, we don't have any summer orientation programs on weekends.

If you want, you can have another job off-campus during the weekends or on days that you are not required to work orientation. Due to state and federal laws, you can't work another NIU (on-campus job) during the summer. You can still work an on-campus job during the spring semester.

Unfortunately, due to the busy schedule for positions, you won't be allowed to take any class on campus during the summer. If you can, online classes are allowed. You'll just have to get classes approved by your supervisor first.

Yes. You should plan to work during all of the orientation dates listed on the position description.